Qatar Sharply Halves Residency Exit Grace Period after Permit Cancellation

Qatar has reduced the grace period for expatriates to leave the country after the cancellation of their residence permits from 30 days to 14 days, according to an official from the Ministry of Interior.

Speaking during a webinar on safe travel procedures organised by the ministry’s Public Relations Department, Captain Ali Ahmed Ali Al Kuwari of the Airport Passports Department said the revised rule is now in effect.

“Earlier it was 30 days, but currently it is two weeks,” he said, as quoted by Gulf Times.

He warned that anyone remaining in Qatar beyond the 14-day period after permit cancellation would face a fine of QR10 per day.

The official also reminded visitors to carefully verify the validity and duration of stay stamped on their visas, noting that overstaying a visit visa attracts a penalty of QR200 per day.

Travellers were advised to review their status through the Metrash application before departure to check for unpaid traffic fines, overstay penalties or other dues that could disrupt travel.

Al Kuwari also urged passengers to use the electronic gate system at Hamad International Airport to speed up immigration clearance. The airport currently operates 76 e-gates across its arrival and departure terminals.

He added that residents wishing to transfer their residence permit to a new passport can complete the process through Metrash.

On residency rules for newborns, Al Kuwari said parents must report births to passport authorities and obtain the necessary residence documents. Children born in Qatar must secure a residence permit under their father’s sponsorship after completing embassy formalities.

Without a valid residence permit, a newborn would not be allowed to re-enter Qatar after leaving the country, he said.

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